While it has had its share of highs and lows, the Slam Dunk Contest has always served as the main event during All-Star Saturday night.

Celebrities and NBA players alike pack the crowd in anticipation of seeing a new generation of dunkers push the creative envelope.

The format has changed several times since its inception in Denver back in 1984, when Phoenix Sun forward Larry Nance outlasted Philadelphia 76ers legend, Julius Erving.

Historically, the contest has undergone several makeovers, both subtle and extreme. The number of dunks attempted, the allotted time per contestant per round and who ultimately judges the show have all been tweaked in the past.

From 1984 to 1993, at least seven players were chosen to participate. That number has fallen to just four in recent seasons.

Regardless of the format, the key is the performers.

Quality over quantity is the name of the game.

Who can improve upon what has already been done? Who has the stones to try something crazy?

Who will add his name to the likes of Dominique Wilkins, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Vince Carter?

The league has tended to lean toward showcasing its younger, less-established players in this contest in recent years, but that trend will need to be bucked if those most deserving are to be selected.

Whether you're a former dunk champion or a career journeyman, this contest is all about the potential to amaze your peers and inspire your fans.

Here, I offer five strong choices for who should represent the league's aerial artists in Houston on February 16.

James White, New York Knicks

The free throw line is not James White's finishing move: it's his starting point.

This guy was ridiculous just a few years ago. NBA fans deserve to see what he has left in the jets.

At about the 4:45 mark of the above 2008 video, White jumps from just inside the free throw line, takes the ball between his legs and dunks it with ease. He does a full windmill dunk from beyond the free throw line as well.